Quality basic shop stool suggestions

[Aaron_W]

This might seem a silly question, but it seems nobody these days actually physically stocks a shop stool so you can plant your **** on it and get a feel for the quality.

My work bench is currently a stout table so I've been using an office chair. I really prefer a taller bench and a stool. I have plans to build a new taller work bench. In the past I've had taller benches with a stool and found I'd alternate between standing, sitting and leaning against the stool.

I'm a decent sized guy, 6'3" about 250lbs so it has to be solidly built.


I'm looking for a basic sturdy stool, 30"-ish tall.

No back

Don't want wheels

Adjustable height optional

Swivel or padded seat optional

Easy to clean



I'm really thinking about one of these guys, the high school shop class special.

http://www.nationalpublicseating.com/products/product-category/single/?prod=53


Something like this would work too if it is solidly built

https://budgetbarstools.com/shop/sacramento-bar-stool/


Just thought I'd see what else might be out there for consideration that people have used and liked. I'm not going for a spartan or minimalist thing, but practicality and durability are my primary considerations.

 

[jimreed2160]

I have one of these and like it.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-black-adjustable-hydraulic-seat/p-00949860000P?sid=IDx01192011x202447059&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvJiSn8-W2wIVnbXACh3VdgFzEAQYASABEgLL5_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CMD3zKXPltsCFSzI4wcdACsLgQ

 

[bwringer]

I would NOT want vinyl. That wouldn't survive long in my garage.

If you're anywhere near an Ikea, they have about a zillion you can try.

Given much the same requirements, I actually ended up with two inexpensive wooden bar stools at different heights. They're fairly basic and lightweight, so I can move them around as needed. I can switch them out to match what I'm working on (for example, the taller one when I'm at the bench, the smaller one if I'm working on a motorcycle on the lift).

One important detail is that both have flat tops -- I end up using them as supports or to hold things a lot more often than I actually sit on them. Turns out having a small portable platform is pretty dang handy. Stack a couple of boxes or whatever on top to get different heights.

If I'm actually going to be sitting on one for long enough to develop an *** ache, I can just put a cushion or stadium seat on top.

 

[dsarge84]

I have one of these in my workshop. It is about 4 years old and I couldn't be happier with it. Adjustable height and really easy to clean. I find it very comfortable as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Seville-Classics-Commercial-Stainless-Listed/dp/B00SGZC7NE/ref=pd_day0_196_8?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00SGZC7NE&pd_rd_r=FHT8ZTFDA63HJ22G8849&pd_rd_w=LfQmj&pd_rd_wg=xT7gU&psc=1&refRID=FHT8ZTFDA63HJ22G8849

 

[Marctrees]

I don't know what you have available in your area, but I would contact like old school surplus office furniture jockey, used machinery dealers, etc, .. and get an old USA made one.

Guaranteeddd to outlast Shiny New Jineez many times over.

Marc

 

[Marctrees]

Or check a new retail store that has WOOD plain jane stools.

Even online.


Anything new that is steel tube and has welds is typically not gonna stand test of time w a full size Man.

Marc

 

[Marctrees]

I could use one myself, live very rural..nothing good used nearby..Looked online and as of yet found NO USA made basic stools.

Marc

 

[crewchief888]

I use an old barstool. Mine swivels and has a back on it.
Just a plain old fashion wooden one would be fine

 

[Aaron_W]

Thanks, a couple of suggestions to follow up on. I mostly wanted to make sure I wasn't missing something big, some great shop furniture that everybody but me knew about.

Sounds like most of you did the same, saw something that looked sturdy and gave it a try.

I've never even been inside an Ikea, looks like the closest one is 2 hours away.

I could use one myself, live very rural..nothing good used nearby..Looked online and as of yet found NO USA made basic stools.

Marc

This is basically my issue too. I'm in a small city in a rural county, so local government / school surplus is non-existent, what little there might be has a long list of community groups who would get first shot at it.

There are a couple of box stores, Walmart, Home Depot etc but they don't generally physically stock items like this. DIY is an option I guess, never made a stool but can't be that difficult can it?...

 

[LS6 Tommy]

I have one of these and like it.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-black-adjustable-hydraulic-seat/p-00949860000P?sid=IDx01192011x202447059&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvJiSn8-W2wIVnbXACh3VdgFzEAQYASABEgLL5_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CMD3zKXPltsCFSzI4wcdACsLgQ

That's what I have. My only complaint, which only is an issue for me, is the foot rest. If it was round it would work with my bad knee better.

Tommy

 

[ericlar80]

I have one of these, and it is nice. You can get it without the back.
https://www.todaysclassroom.com/ki-618bwa-industrial-wooden-seat-stool-with-backrest-adjustable-height-19-to-27/

 

[Marctrees]

ericlar - Good source you found !!

ericlar's link says "USA", but is less than OP's "30"

This one is 30, does NOT say USA, but says "10 yr frame warranty" Marc

https://www.todaysclassroom.com/sch...ight-solid-plastic-stool-30-inch-seat-height/

 

[Marctrees]

The link above is $67 PLUS shipping--- $91 total w FedEx ground shipping to N Cal.

Mebbe a little steep, but not if 50 yrs from now the Grandkid can say "That was GrandDad's chair".

Marc

 

[Marctrees]

https://www.demco.com/products/Furniture/Stools/Classroom-Stools/OFM-Endure-Stools/_/A-B00229861

 

[NitroShark]

Aaron_W - the first stool you posted is what I'll call "industry standard" for office equipment.

My father (who ran an office equipment business) gave me this one in the picture below almost 30 years ago. You can see it's still real nice. Sturdy, swivels and height adjustable.

Made by equipto Model D-43

http://www.equipto.com/history/



.

 

[Aaron_W]

Cool thanks, it looks like there are quite a few manufacturers of these lab stools. There are some USA made brands in there, anything from 5 year to limited life time warranties. Some nice wood stools as well.

Don't go poking too deep though, I found some cool storage units. I could spend a lot of money on that site very easily.

 

[Aaron_W]

Aaron_W - the first stool you posted is what I'll call "industry standard" for office equipment.

My father (who ran an office equipment business) gave me this one in the picture below almost 30 years ago. You can see it's still real nice. Sturdy, swivels and height adjustable.

Made by equipto Model D-43

http://www.equipto.com/history/



.

I could spend a lot on that site as well... Thanks

 

[Aaron_W]

The link above is $67 PLUS shipping--- $91 total w FedEx ground shipping to N Cal.

Mebbe a little steep, but not if 50 yrs from now the Grandkid can say "That was GrandDad's chair".

Marc

$100 for a stool that lasts 10-15 years+ I have no problem with.

 

[NUTTSGT]

I have two of the Cman that Jim linked. I like them but they do have a back, which doesn't have to be installed.

Although I'm about 2 inches shorter and 50lbs less, I have sat on mine for hours.

 

[Marctrees]

NUTTS - I am 290, BIGGER than you !!

HA HA.

Just sayin.


But, I am bigger.

Marc

 

[Hollywood D]

Rockler has a nice looking padded one. It has good reviews. I’ve been meaning to get one, just haven’t done it yet.

http://www.rockler.com/pneumatic-swiveling-shop-stool

 

[Aaron_W]

I went with the shop class special, made in USA, 15 year warranty, $53 with free shipping.

https://www.todaysclassroom.com/ki-630-industrial-stool-with-wood-seat-fixed-height-30/

It is going to be used near a lathe and mill, so I figured upholstered doesn't seem the best idea for a long life expectancy with metal chips flying about.

Thanks for the help.


That Rockler stool does look nice and sturdy, probably fairly comfortable as well.

 

[Marctrees]

DIY ideas... Marc

http://www.halloweensyndicate.com/5...ol-diy-barstools-to-the-honey-please-do-list/

https://www.google.com/search?q=diy...UICygC&biw=1229&bih=608#imgrc=3xgKZbJbP9lZ_M:

 

[Marctrees]

Aaron - WOW !!

Good catch.. I see THAT particular item on that site for whatever reason shows FREE ship.

Excellent purchase.

Marc

 

[Aaron_W]

Just following up. The stools arrived a couple days ago. Long delay in shipping but it was free and I was in no hurry so wasn't an issue for me. Company did maintain good communication, and I suspect just 2 stools is not their typical order.

Very solid construction, with good fit and finish. I suspect my future heirs will have to deal with their disposal in a few decades (fingers crossed )

 

[NUTTSGT]

Very solid construction, with good fit and finish. I suspect my future heirs will have to deal with their disposal in a few decades (fingers crossed )

LO, won't be your problem but any grandson worth his salt will snag them as;

1. they were gramp's stool (not stool sample)

2. he'll know that a stool is a great addition to the garage

 

[LS6 Tommy]

I have the Craftsman Hydraulic shop stool with the back rest, but the foot rest is square and i'ts little uncomfortable for my knee that has somewhat limited motion.

I just found a great old stool at Lion Surplus at Penn State. For $5.00 I couldn't pass it up:




I still need to clean it up a bit, but the foot rest is perfect for my bum leg.

Tommy

 

[sberry]

This is the kind of thing you just need to "find" Sometimes you need to fix or modify. All of a sudden I have 3 more chairs, no idea where a couple even came from. It doesn't always happen instantly, for that you need to buy but most of the free stuff I ended up keeping worked out as well or better than it would have if I rushed to buy or build.
I went to move a piece out I wasn't using from one part of the shop and wheeled it past another and wham, the perfect piece I had been struggling with for a long while.

 

[Vintage Veloce]

Just bumped into this thread as I needed a second stool.
I've had one of these for a couple years, nice round stainless steel top with a slight dish to it:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079PNF1Y5/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Looking to order another I found they now make this with a stainless top that is more like a saddle, and it is even cheaper. I just ordered one and will give it a shot for $37!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L3YASXG/?tag=atomicindus08-20

PS: The ring on the bottom is welded and the unit is very sturdy. I do note they make a version with casters, but those do not have anywhere near as good reviews.)

 

[motofool33]

look at exteneded use/ prolonged use lab chairs your *** doesn't go to sleep when you sit for long periods of time as they are ergonomically correct.

example, i have used the ones with wheels and ones without.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G1CXQMV/?tag=atomicindus08-20

currently have a wheeled one in my shop and the rubber type seat material hasn't has issues with all sorts of chemicals in the shop.

 

[oldcpecdr]

I was looking for some high stools for trade shows and bought two of these listed on Amazon, welded and sturdy, I thought they were an excellent deal for under 40.00
Hold my fat **** no problem....and no nuts bolts or screws to work loose and wobble.

Mike B

Flash Furniture 30'' High Backless Red Metal Indoor-Outdoor Barstool with Square Seat

 

[Marctrees]

This is more of a rolling low work chair.. made for easily wheeling around a project..

That, and the little cart that holds 99% of what I need in my work.. the best investment of time ever.

All about 4" swivel casters on both, cart has a heavy no tipover ballasted bottom. Marc

 

[paulm12]

This is more of a rolling low work chair.. made for easily wheeling around a project..

That, and the little cart that holds 99% of what I need in my work.. the best investment of time ever.

All about 4" swivel casters on both, cart has a heavy no tipover ballasted bottom. Marc

nicely done on the rolling chair.

 

[Marctrees]

Thanks.. The 4x4 is permanently secured into the bottom socket, but the top socket is loose on the 4x4.. cause I still may be shortening the post a bit... didn't know final exact height till I used it a bit.

And, it makes it possible to make an extension to make the chair higher if wanted.

Also, the bottom socket is under the shelf to not take away from space to set down tools in use.

Not very elegant, but very stable non tippy... works awesome for my purpose.

I regularly do a particular job where I need to work moving around an island worktable many times, so it's mostly for that.

Marc

 

[NUTTSGT]

Added another Cman stool to my ownership list. This resides in the bunkroom at the fire station.

 

[Lynden]

I have two wooden shop stools. They're about 30 years old and were made by a furniture company in Mississippi. They look like these stools.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DY7IC5G/?tag=atomicindus08-20

The seats on my stools are Naugahyde instead of leather. I cut the legs down on one of the stools to make it a little shorter.

 

[n20junkie]

I have a Target wooden stool that has been flawless for 9 years. It's been used and abused and it still is nice and tight.

I’m going to buy more for the new shop soon.

 

[Marctrees]

I have two wooden shop stools. They're about 30 years old and were made by a furniture company in Mississippi. They look like these stools.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DY7IC5G/?tag=atomicindus08-20

The seats on my stools are Naugahyde instead of leather. I cut the legs down on one of the stools to make it a little shorter.

No offense to Lynden, I know he was just trying to show a comparable style, But I betcha his stools outlast the linked ones by 10X.

The made in Miss stools sound great... and the LS6Tommy stool above, unfortunately, virtually all the new stools on the market are chinese... And, unless they are babied, will last a short life.

Softer wood, crappy joints, crappy welds and s **** pot metal castings.

Possibly suitable for a 90 lb Trophy Wife, not much else.

Prospective buyers of the above "Winsome" "Leather" stools need to look into what "PU Leather" is.

Just like that Harbor Freight smell, P...U.

Marc

 

[Aaron_W]

look at exteneded use/ prolonged use lab chairs your *** doesn't go to sleep when you sit for long periods of time as they are ergonomically correct.

example, i have used the ones with wheels and ones without.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G1CXQMV/?tag=atomicindus08-20

currently have a wheeled one in my shop and the rubber type seat material hasn't has issues with all sorts of chemicals in the shop.

My **** doubles as a built in seat cushion.

No offense to Lynden, I know he was just trying to show a comparable style, But I betcha his stools outlast the linked ones by 10X.

The made in Miss stools sound great... and the LS6Tommy stool above, unfortunately, virtually all the new stools on the market are chinese... And, unless they are babied, will last a short life.

Softer wood, crappy joints, crappy welds and s **** pot metal castings.

Possibly suitable for a 90 lb Trophy Wife, not much else.

Prospective buyers of the above "Winsome" "Leather" stools need to look into what "PU Leather" is.

Just like that Harbor Freight smell, P...U.

Marc

I was pleasantly surprised to find a sizable number of American made stools in my search. Sure many / probably most are imports, but apparently we do still make some furniture in the USA.